MassWorks grant to aid Taunton’s downtown area

TAUNTON – A $1,280,750 MassWorks Infrastructure Program grant will support development downtown.
The series of infrastructure improvements will also support future private investment in the city, a news release said. Based on estimates from the South Coast Rail Economic Development and Land Use Corridor Plan, the area can accommodate up to 660 housing units and 445,700 square feet of commercial space within a one-mile radius of the proposed Taunton commuter rail station.
According to the release, the grant will support Phase II streetscape improvements in downtown Taunton by replacing deteriorated and non-ADA compliant sidewalks, installing new granite curbs, installing trees and new parking kiosks, and making upgrades to drainage and water lines. The project will stretch from High Street, near the renovated Taunton Mall, down Main Street to Church Green, and then up School Street from Main Street to Leonard Street. Phase I was completed by the city.
Two developments adjacent to the work area will benefit from the infrastructure upgrades, the New England Brass site on Park Street that will be developed into a 60,000-square-foot, medical-office complex and the former Baron’s Furniture property on Trescott Street that will include six units of affordable housing and commercial space. The infrastructure upgrades are also in the vicinity of the major Hope VI housing-redevelopment project supported by federal and state funding. •

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